Different Types of VR

Different Types of VR

Posted on August 27, 2018

The development of virtual reality (VR) as a widely accessible platform has been a momentous achievement in the technology industry. It has enabled businesses and customers to access more efficient and effective solutions. This has been evident in industries such as entertainment, education, and property development sectors. While this innovation may feel advanced enough, VR continues to progress as it exists within a state of rapid evolution. The implications of this are twofold; 1. Technology will only continue to adapt and improve, 2. Users have to keep track of these changes. We recognize the difficulty in doing so, especially due to its innovative characteristics. By evaluating the different types of VR headsets, we aim to break down these barriers to adoption. Subsequently, we envision a future where individuals are equipped with the knowledge to confidently utilize VR.

Hardware

We acknowledge the smorgasbord of VR solutions which have been developed as a result of this technological evolution. Therefore, it can be challenging to understand which one will most effectively improve your operations.

To create an immersive experience, the majority of products require the user to access a personal computer and a VR headset (also referred to as a head-mounted display - HMD). This respectively provides power to program the experience and a platform which displays the visual content.

Where to Start?

To get a taste of VR before drawing into your savings, Google Cardboard is the perfect starting point. This product will cost you around $15AU and will enable you to experience VR in a few simple steps; “Get it, fold it and look inside”. Along with this product, the only additional equipment you need is a phone - to display the visual content.

If you enjoy this experience, you’re probably ready to invest in a high-end VR system. Depending on the brand, the headset will range in price from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Each brand offers slightly different packages, technological capabilities, and features.

Our Experience with Different Types of VR

The headsets Devika utilizes include (but is not limited to) Oculus, Vive, and Dell. They all support 6 degrees of freedom and require a PC to power;

Oculus Rift: Rift is an overall good quality product which has an ergonomic, lightweight headset and built-in audio system. The tracking is comparatively satisfactory and controllers require AA batteries to power. The current retail price is AU$599 for the headset, touch controllers and two sensors.

HTC Vive: Has comparatively better tracking, great visuals, supports additional trackers and has rechargeable batteries. The weight is noticeable after a period of time, making it less suitable for lengthy experiences. Currently, for AU$879, you will receive a headset, two wireless controllers, two base stations, a link box and other accessories.

VIVE Pro: It is regarded as a ‘second generation’ technology as it utilizes the latest software and hardware. This includes exceptional visuals, an inbuilt audio system and rechargeable batteries in the controllers. Their AU$1199 package includes the headset, DisplayPort cable, mounting pad, headset and other accessories.

Dell Mixed Reality Headset: The resolution sits between the Vive and Vive Pro. It's comfortable and includes a flip-up visor to easily transition between the virtual and real world. The inside-out tracking eliminates the need for external sensors. The downfall is that the tracking is currently not as reliable. In comparison to other brands, their hand controllers are delicate. Two AA batteries power each controller, which need regular replacements.

PC Needed to Support VR

Each of these different types of VR requires a slightly different PC. This is because each headset has slightly different capabilities, each also is powered slightly differently. Each brand normally specifies the requirements on their website. However, a standard guide includes;

Processor: i5-6500 or Greater CPU

Graphics Card: minimum NVIDIA GTX 980 or AMD R9 390 GPU

RAM: 16GB+ RAM

Storage: SSD

Future of VR

VR has already transformed businesses and is providing more effective solutions for customers. Progress hasn’t stopped though, with talk of headsets becoming cordless...Modifications will continue, enabling a more friendly and quality user experience. As more industries are beginning to utilize VR’s capabilities, this progression will only continue to incline on an exponential scale.

If you’re interested in utilizing VR technology and would benefit from a more detailed insight into the different types of VR, contact us here